ЦАПы — Emm Labs EMM Labs DA2i

The DA2i is a digital to analogue converter with built in network streaming from EMM Labs, the Calgary firm founded by Ed Meitner, who has designed converters since the late 1980s and took part in the development of SACD and DSD. The unit is designed, tested and manufactured in Canada. It is built as a reference level converter for both disc and network sources, and its list price stands at USD 35,000.

Key specs that matter

Inside are the proprietary MDAC2 discrete dual differential converters, which work at 16 times the DSD rate, known as DSD1024. Incoming data can be PCM up to 24 bit and 192 kHz on every input, as well as DXD, DSD at single and double rate, and MQA. Balanced XLR outputs deliver 7 V rms in the high setting or 4 V rms in the low setting through a 300 ohm source impedance. The RCA outputs give 3.5 V rms or 2 V rms at 150 ohm. The case measures 438 x 400 x 161 mm and weighs 16 kg, and it comes in silver with a black insert or in all black anodised aluminium.

Engineering and use context

Every incoming signal is processed by the MDAT2 digital stage before conversion, and the MCLK3 clock system runs asynchronously from the source. The MFAST frequency acquisition protocol locks onto new sample rates quickly. Digital inputs cover AES/EBU, coaxial, Toslink and USB, plus the proprietary EMM Optilink connection for an EMM Labs CD and SACD transport. The USB and network interfaces use galvanic isolation to keep noise from computers and routers away from the conversion stage. On the streaming side the DA2i works with Roon, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, V-Tuner and DLNA or UPnP servers. Power consumption peaks at 30 W, and a universal supply accepts 85 to 260 V AC at 50 or 60 Hz.

Pairing

The switchable output level lets the converter suit the gain structure of whatever amplifier comes next, with the low setting avoiding overload of gain stages meant for standard line-level sources. A matching EMM Labs transport can connect through Optilink, and the network input removes the need for a separate streamer. Both XLR and RCA outputs are live, so the unit can serve a balanced preamplifier and a second system from one chassis. EMM Labs also runs an upgrade programme for its older converters.

Alternatives

The EMM Labs DV2i combines a streaming DAC with a preamplifier section and volume control in one chassis for systems that feed a power amplifier directly.